STATEMENT REGARDING HB 180

Akron, Ohio, June 8, 2016 – Mayor Dan Horrigan released a statement today regarding the signing into law of House Bill (HB) 180.

“The Governor’s decision to sign HB 180 into law is disappointing and frustrating. Consequently, I am actively setting up meetings with state legislators to craft alternatives for the City of Akron’s $1.4 billion sewer project,” said Mayor Horrigan.

The Mayor added, “I strongly believe an exemption will show our state capital’s commitment to the taxpayers of Akron, along with other taxpayers across the State of Ohio who are paying for mandated living improvements in their own communities, but are now uninvited to work on those projects and earn wages. As cities across the State strive to combat the institutional inequities in hiring practices for local work forces, we cannot be silent. This ban harms the workers of the city and the mission of those elected and trusted by voters, especially those who are skilled laborers, to effectively reduce local unemployment.”